The morning after her date with Princess Amara, Rebecca awoke feeling refreshed and hopeful. Though she enjoyed Amara's company, her thoughts kept returning to her encounter with Freen in the garden. She couldn't help but think about how Freen took care of her. And the feeling of Freen's soft lips against hers lingered, making her heart quicken at the memory.

Tracing her fingers over her lips, Rebecca could still scarcely believe that she had kissed Freen... Or well when Freen had kissed her. It was her first kiss and it was perfect. She smiled thinking back on how Freen had tenderly cradled her chin, tilting Rebecca's face up to meet her intense but affectionate gaze.

Rebecca flushed remembering how Freen's smoldering eyes had flicked down to her lips for a brief moment - seeking permission - before she slowly closed the space between them. The kiss had been more than she could have dreamed off - introduction to new desires Rebecca never knew she harbored. She knew she should be focused on assessing her eligible suitors, yet none sparked even a fraction of the longing Freen had awoken within her. When they passed by chance in the palace corridors, Freen's smile and lingering gaze made Rebecca's heart do somersaults.

Reluctantly, Rebecca stirred from bed, knowing she can't lounge all morning daydreaming or she'd be late to prepare for her meeting. Still, the promise of seeing Freen at lunch coaxed Rebecca from under the covers. The thought of seeing Freen in just a few hours was enough for Rebecca to get through the morning. 

She rang the bell for Elara and a moment later, Elara swept in brightly into her bedchamber.

"Good morning, princess!' Elara sang. "You look cheerful today."

"Is it that obvious?" Rebecca laughed as she made her way to the wardrobe. She chose a light blue day dress from her wardrobe for the day and Elara helped her get dressed and helped style her hair.

As Elara worked a brush through Rebecca's long brunette strands, she gave the princess a knowing glance in the mirror. "You have a special glow around you, Princess. Have you perhaps met someone?"

Rebecca felt her cheeks flush. Though she wanted to tell Elara, she still wasn't ready to open up to anyone yet. Instead she simply smiled and changed the subject. Elara soon had Rebecca's hair styled and Rebecca went to get her morning started.

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After a busy morning of another set of meetings with her counsel members, Rebecca made her way to the palace dining hall with butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She spotted Freen already seated at a table on the balcony, as she was looking outside with her chin resting on one hand with a small smile spread across her face. She looked so breathtakingly beautiful with an air of mystery, exuding elegance even as she was doing nothing.

Approaching softly so as not to startle Freen from her thoughts, Rebecca gently pulled out the chair across from her. Despite Rebecca's care, Freen glanced over, surprised at the sudden movement. Seeing Rebecca, Freen's startled expression dissolved into a radiant smile that made her emerald green eyes shine with warmth.

"Good morning, or should I say good afternoon now," Freen laughed softly at her. "Please forgive me, I was off in my own world for a moment there and you took me by surprise."

Rebecca grinned as she settled into the chair. "No, don't apologize. I'm the one who should ask forgiveness for keeping you waiting - I didn't realize I didn't say when I'll be done with my meetings."

Freen waved her hand. "Think nothing of it. I had a pleasant time sitting here enjoying the view." Her gaze held Rebecca's with gentle reassurance. After a pause she added softly, "Especially when I know I'll be spending that time soon enough with you."

Rebecca felt her cheeks flush at Freen's words. Just then a servant arrived carrying a tray laden with dishes. Freen's eyes sparkled. "Ah, lunch is served! I took the liberty of ordering for us..."

As Freen enthusiastically described the array of bite-sized appetizers and petite desserts, Rebecca found herself caring less about the food and more enthralled just to have Freen's attention. Their conversation flowed easily as they ate, both sharing amusing stories and bonding more over their many common interests.

While Freen was eating and listening to Rebecca talk about the orphanage she visits every month to help out, Freen noticed a stray crumb clinging to the corner of Rebecca's mouth. Without thinking, she instinctively leaned over to gently brush it away. But to her surprise and hurt, Rebecca recoiled, an anxious look flashing across her face as she put more distance between them.

Freen withdrew, stung. Of course - she had forgotten they were still in a public setting. Rebecca was clearly not yet comfortable revealing the shift in their relationship openly and Freen berated herself for letting their newfound intimacy make her careless of Rebecca's boundaries.

"Forgive me," Freen murmured, dropping her gaze. "I should be more considerate of your position. Please, let's continue our conversation."

Rebecca bit her lip, seeing the wounded look Freen tried to conceal. Her eyes flitted anxiously around the dining hall before she reached out under the table to give Freen's hand an apologetic squeeze, hoping it would be enough to soothe Freen, silently pleading for her forgiveness over her actions.

Freen glanced up in surprise at the feeling of Rebecca's hand grasping hers under the table. She was touched by the gesture, knowing such contact in public did not come easy for the reserved princess. Freen gave her a tiny nod of understanding, the hurt in her gaze easing slightly... though not forgotten. As much as Freen wanted to brush it aside entirely, Rebecca's unexpected recoiling still pricked at her heart. She knew it was an instinctive reaction on Rebecca's part, but the unintended rejection stung deeply.

While Rebecca meant no malice, she could not fully grasp how vulnerable Freen felt sharing affection so soon after having her heart shattered in the past. Freen still carried those emotional scars beneath her confident exterior. But the princess swallowed back the renewed ache, plastering a faint smile on her face, not wishing Rebecca to see how her actions had impacted her.

Freen took a quiet, steady breath before gently squeezing Rebecca's fingers in return. Though she longed to fully intertwine their hands, she did not wish to draw any curious glances their way. Clearing her throat softly, Freen steered the conversation to lighter topics about some of the amusing stories she had recently with princess Sofia and prince Leon.

Rebecca smiled gratefully as the tension lifted between them. She gently released Freen's hand to enjoy the remainder of their meal. They continued eating, Rebecca complimenting the dishes while Freen listened politely though with less sparkle than before. Rebecca seemed to sense the shift but there was nothing she could do. She was not yet comfortable to openly display her feelings. Freen, on the other hand, made a mental note to revisit their earlier conversation in private where they need not hold back physical displays of affection. For now though, Freen let herself relax into the flowing banter, simply relishing Rebecca's presence across from her.

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After the meal finished and the plates were cleared, Rebecca discreetly beckoned her handmaiden over.

"How much time do I have until my next engagement, Elara?" Rebecca inquired in a hushed tone, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention.

Elara glanced at the small clock and replied with a soft tone, "Princess, you have about an hour before your next scheduled event."

A small spark of hope spread across Rebecca when she learned she had more time to spare. Although hesitant, she turned her attention back to Freen, her expression a mix of uncertainty and longing.

"Freen," Rebecca began tentatively, her voice softened, "I have a little time before my next commitment. Would... would you like to spend some more time together?"

Rebecca's request hung in the air and Freen seemed to be regarding her with an unreadable expression, eyes revealing nothing of her inner thoughts. Inside, Freen felt conflicted. Part of her wanted to make an excuse to leave - the hurt from Rebecca's earlier recoiling still lingered, making Freen hesitant to make herself emotionally vulnerable again so soon.

However, seeing the hopeful glint in Rebecca's gaze caused Freen's heart to soften. She knew Rebecca was trying, in her own reserved way, to make amends for reacting instinctively earlier. Freen sighed inwardly, recognizing that they both still had much to talk about in this newly deepening relationship. She wanted to spend the rest of the afternoon alone but she also knew that they should discuss about what had transpired. It would do no good to push aside their feelings.

"I would be happy to spend more time with you," Freen finally replied gently.

Rebecca's face immediately brightened, relief washing over her features. Freen gave her a small, affectionate smile in return, hoping to reassure the princess that she harbored no hard feelings.

As they left the dining area together, Freen caught Rebecca glancing around self-consciously once more. Guessing the reason, Freen made sure to leave a respectable distance between them, not wishing to cause Rebecca distress. Freen hoped once they were somewhere more private, Rebecca would feel comfortable reciprocating Freen's subtle affectionate gestures again. For now, Freen let herself enjoy Rebecca's company, the earlier tension nearly forgotten.

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Walking side by side down the corridor, Rebecca stole occasional glances at Freen, who seemed deep in thought. Rebecca wondered if Freen was having second thoughts about spending more time together.

Eager to dispel any doubts, Rebecca spoke up softly, "Would you... would you like to see the music room?"

Freen raised her eyebrows in surprise but smiled. "I would love to. I haven't been to the music room yet."

Rebecca flushed slightly. "Yes, and it is more private..." she trailed off, averting her gaze.

Understanding dawned on Freen and she had to suppress a wider grin. It seemed Rebecca had the same idea - to find a more secluded spot where they need not worry about prying eyes, a place where they could speak openly and be affectionate without restraint.

Once inside the spacious, sunlit room, Rebecca led Freen over to a piano situated next to a wide window overlooking the royal gardens. She sat down on the bench and patted the spot beside her in invitation.

"Do you play?" Freen asked with interest, trailing her fingers lightly over the glossy keys.

"A little," Rebecca admitted. "I'm still learning."

"I'd love to hear you sometime," Freen smiled warmly.

Rebecca returned the smile, some of the uncertainty fading from her eyes. "Freen, about earlier at lunch..." she began hesitantly. "I truly am sorry if I caused you any distress with my...reaction. It was thoughtless of me."

Freen gazed at her with understanding. "You have nothing to apologize for," she said gently. "I know showing affection openly is still difficult for you right now. I do not wish to pressure you in any way. But I would like to understand, if you feel comfortable sharing...is there a possibility that there could be something deeper developing between us? I only ask because I do not wish to misread signals or have unrealistic expectations. I care about you a great deal, Rebecca, but I also do not want my feelings to grow if you still consider me only a friend."

Freen paused, gathering her thoughts before continuing delicately. "I also want to be mindful of your boundaries. Our titles make things complex, I know... If you could clarify what you feel able to share publicly versus privately, it would help me avoid causing you any further distress. The last thing I want is to let my affection override your comfort. Please know that however you feel is valid and it's most important for me that you feel at ease."

Freen fell silent, giving Rebecca space to gather her own thoughts. Rebecca stared down at her hands, struggling to unravel the complicated knot of emotions within her. She cared for Freen deeply as more than a friend, that much she knew. More than cared for. When Freen was near, Rebecca felt a happiness that no one else elicited.

She found herself seeking reasons to extend their conversations, to spend more time with her. When they were together, Rebecca felt seen, understood - free to be herself. Freen stirred feelings and longings in her no one else ever had. But Rebecca struggled to define the depths of those emotions. Was this love? Or perhaps just an initial crush, born out of Freen's attentiveness and Rebecca's own inexperience with romance?

She raised her eyes, meeting Freen's gentle gaze watching her softly. Rebecca's breath caught at the open affection in those green eyes. Freen seemed perfect to Rebecca - everything that the books described love to be.

Freen had infinite patience and understanding for Rebecca's boundaries and hesitations. She asked for nothing, expected nothing. Simply let Rebecca set the pace without judgment or demands. Even when Rebecca had thoughtlessly hurt her at lunch, Freen harbored no bitterness.

Rebecca's fingers drifted absently to her lips, remembering the kiss. Brief as it was, no words could adequately convey the rightness of Freen's mouth claimed tenderly by hers. Rebecca longed to feel that sense of coming home again, to lose herself in Freen's warmth.

Freen was a revelation - the missing piece of Rebecca's heart she hadn't realized was incomplete. With Freen, the world held new colors. Rebecca wanted to give her everything in return - kisses, caresses, her past pains and present joys. Most of all, Rebecca wanted to gift her a love with foundations firm and true. Freen deserved everything ...and so much more. But Rebecca wasn't sure she could be able to match Freen's openness and affection.

Rebecca was much more reserved by nature and upbringing than the emotionally expressive Freen. Yet Rebecca yearned to break down the self-protective barriers she had erected over the years and learn to love freely. She wanted to reciprocate the romance and passion described in books - the sweet nothings whispered late at night, intertwined bodies with no space between.

But Rebecca also harbored fears of letting Freen down. What if she remained too rigid and withdrawn? She did not want Freen to feel starved of the affection she deserved. Rebecca hoped with time she could grow past her inhibitions. That one day she would stand fully bare before Freen, body and soul alike, hiding not even the smallest fragment of herself.

For now though, Rebecca resolved to love Freen as wholly as she could at this moment, while continuing to dismantle her walls. She met Freen's patient gaze and saw only encouragement there - a safe harbor for Rebecca to chart her own course towards their relationship, one tentative step after another.

"You've never caused me distress," she finally said softly. "The issue lies with me. I've built such high walls over the years to protect myself that I often struggle with open displays of affection, even in private."

She hesitantly reached for Freen's hand. "But with you, I...find myself willing to lower those walls. I cannot yet promise how much or how soon," she admitted. "This is all still new and a little daunting for me. But, there is indeed something deeper stirring in my heart for you, Freen. Much more than mere friendship."

Rebecca took a steadying breath before continuing softly. "Privately, know that you can express your affection freely with me. I cannot guarantee I will not still tense up instinctively at times. But I welcome it, truly." She gave a shy smile. "Publicly, I think subtle gestures like earlier - a hand squeeze or brief touch - are within my comfort zone presently."

"Forgive me again for reacting poorly earlier," she murmured. "I will get better at...this." Rebecca gestured between them before her gaze drifted to the surroundings, her voice carrying a touch of wistfulness. "I want to be more carefree around others and openly express my feelings to you. But it will take time for me to change... and get rid of this fear and uncertainties I have."

She turned back to Freen, her expression soft but filled with genuine concern. "I hope you understand. I value what we have, and I don't want to give you false hope. I just need your patience until I find the courage to let go of these reservations entirely."

Freen gazed at Rebecca with empathy, seeing the conflict in her eyes between yearning and hesitation. She had expected this response from Rebecca but she's glad to hear it from Rebecca herself and that she's willing to give themselves a chance.

"I know change doesn't come easily, even if it's change that we desire," Freen said. "Especially when duties and expectations have shaped you since childhood. Your heart may be ready to explore something new, but your mind still clenches in old habits."

Rebecca dipped her head in acknowledgment. Freen's words had perfectly captured the conflict Rebecca felt inside.

"I will not pretend it doesn't warm me each time you lower your walls for me," Freen admitted. "But only if done freely. You owe no one a version of yourself that causes discomfort – not the court, not your parents, and certainly not me."

"I care for you as you are, reservations and all..." Freen tucked a strand of Rebecca's dark hair behind her ear, her thumb brushing softly over Rebecca's cheek. "If this is the most you can give right now...it is enough. It is more than enough."

Rebecca leaned into Freen's touch, comforted by her selfless patience and understanding. She let her eyes flutter closed for a moment, focusing on the soothing sensation of Freen's fingers caressing her cheek.

When she opened her eyes again, Freen was gazing back with such tender devotion that Rebecca felt her breath hitch. Without realizing, both slowly leaned in towards each other, pausing when their faces were just inches apart.

"May I?" Freen whispered, her eyes seeking permission.

Rebecca's lips parted in surprise, a fierce blush rising to color her cheeks. Eyes shining, she gave the smallest nod and Freen closed the little distance between them to press a soft kiss to the corner of the princess' mouth. Lingering, she nuzzled against Rebecca's cheek affectionately before pulling back to search the younger woman's gaze for any hesitation.

Finding none, Freen slowly brought their mouths together in a kiss that stole Rebecca's breath. Rebecca's lips, soft under hers, parted on a sigh that Freen drank in. She kept the kiss light, allowing Rebecca time to pull away. But the princess only leaned closer, hands coming up to cling timidly to Freen's shoulders. Freen took that as permission to tenderly capture Rebecca's lip between her own, tasting her sweetness.

Rebecca tentatively began to move her lips against Freen's, mirroring her and Freen let out a hum of approval. Freen slid her hand around to cradle the back of Rebecca's head, fingers threading through dark strands. She tilted her mouth further, gently taking the princess's bottom lip between both of hers, nipping delicately. Rebecca sighed into the kiss, hands gripping her shoulders tightly.

As the kiss deepened, Freen's world narrowed to Rebecca's mouth on hers. The sweet warmth of her quickened breath, the hesitant swipes of her tongue along Freen's lip. Freen responded by tenderly stroking Rebecca's tongue with her own, tearing a small, pleading sound from the princess that lit Freen's body aflame.

Yet still Freen kept the intensity reined in, not wanting to frighten Rebecca with the passion raging inside. They had enough time for that. Instead, Freen's hands remained safely clasped between them, pouring all their unnamed feelings into their kiss.

When at last they parted for air, lips kiss-swollen and flushed, Rebecca appeared adorably flustered. Her eyes shone as she gazed up at Freen through dark lashes and Freen wanted nothing more to kiss her senseless. Instead, Freen reached up to tuck back a lock of Rebecca's mussed hair, letting her touch linger as if unable to stop touching Rebecca now that she had started.

An embarrassed grin pulled at Rebecca's lips, eyes shy. "...My... my legs have fallen asleep on this piano bench," she admitted with a self-conscious little laugh.

Freen chuckled, rising and offering her hand. "Well then, allow me." She led Rebecca across the music room to a couch tucked against the towering bookshelves.

They settled together on the plush cushions, Rebecca automatically curling into Freen's side. Freen wrapped an arm around her, fingers idly stroking over Rebecca's sleeve. A comfortable intimacy cocooned around them.

Rebecca pillowed her head on Freen's shoulder with a content little sigh. "I wish we had more time before I must go."

Freen pressed a kiss to Rebecca's hair, breathing in her scent. "I wish so too... But I'm happy we got to talk." She gave Rebecca a gentle squeeze.

"Me too," Rebecca murmured, a soft smile gracing her lips. She nestled closer, reveling in the warmth of Freen's embrace. "And I'm really glad we talked about everything. I'm sorry once more about earlier... I didn't mean to pull away. I just..." Her voice trailed off, unable to articulate her mixed emotions and lingering unease.

Freen's hold tightened slightly around Rebecca, a reassuring gesture. "It's okay, Rebecca. I understand."

As Freen idly stroked Rebecca's arm, a peaceful silence fell over them. The ticking of a nearby clock was the only sound they heard as Rebecca relaxed further into Freen's embrace, savoring the fleeting moments they had left together. She let her fingers trail absentmindedly along the fabric of Freen's dress, sketching patterns on her thigh.

"Have you spoken to your parents or sought counsel about yesterday?" Freen asked softly.

"Yesterday?" she murmured back.

"... Hmmm about what happened with Prince Lucas." Rebecca heard Freen murmur back causing her to withdraw her hand and rest it on her lap. She shifted slightly, the memory of the unpleasant encounter with Prince Lucas resurfacing.

"Not yet," she admitted, her tone carrying a hint of frustration. "I tried talking to my parents, but they were occupied so I had to request time to speak with them. They mentioned they'd only be available this evening though so I wasn't able to speak to them about the matter yet."

Rebecca's voice quivered slightly as she continued, "I know it's important to them, but sometimes it feels like they're too preoccupied with their duties to notice anything else. I wanted to speak to them, but..." She paused, trying to control her emotions, but tears welled up in her eyes despite her efforts.

"I feel like they're more concerned with the affairs of the kingdom than their own daughter," Rebecca confessed in a wavering voice. "I've always tried to understand their responsibilities, but at times like this, I wish they could prioritize being there for me."

Freen tightened her hold around Rebecca, offering silent support as she gently brushed away the tears that escaped Rebecca's eyes. "I'm sorry, Rebecca," Freen whispered softly. "It must be difficult feeling that way, especially when you need their guidance and support."

Rebecca nodded, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggled to express her feelings. "I just wanted them to know, to be there for me when I needed them.... I... I don't even know if they'll do anything about Lucas."

She wiped her eyes, not wanting any more tears to fall. "But at least they agreed to speak with me this evening. I hope I can make them understand."

Freen felt sadness flowing through her knowing Rebecca's predicament with her parents. "I don't know what to say," Freen murmured softly. "It's sad to see how occupied your parents are with their duties, especially when you need them the most."

Rebecca sank into Freen's embrace, finding comfort in her understanding. "It's alright, Freen," she whispered, appreciating Freen's empathy even if she couldn't offer a solution. "Thank you for being here for me and listening to me."

Freen looked down at Rebecca with a cautious expression. "Maybe... after what happened with Lucas, they'll finally see how much you need their support," Freen suggested tentatively, her voice tinged with apology. "Sometimes, people open their eyes when something significant occurs. Perhaps this could be the moment they realize how important it is to be there for you."

Rebecca nodded slowly, considering Freen's words. "You might be right," she murmured, "but... I don't believe in them anymore. Freen, my parents... they had promised me once, during the opening banquet of the festival. They told me they were sorry for the way they treated me and that they would change, be more present in my life. But since that night, nothing has changed."

Freen's heart ached for Rebecca's disappointment. "I'm so sorry, Rebecca," Freen said sadly. "It's painful to hear that they haven't followed through on their promise. It's understandable that you'd find it hard to believe in their words now."

Rebecca nodded, a hint of bitterness in her voice. "Their words felt genuine that night, and I hoped things would change. But they returned to their duties the very next day as if nothing happened. I felt so hopeful that night, Freen, but... it's been days, and I've seen no change."

Freen pressed a gentle kiss to Rebecca's forehead, not knowing what else to say. "I wish I had the right words to make things better."

Rebecca shook her head. "I'm okay. Although they brought my hope up, it's not like anything has changed. I've grown accustomed to their behavior, but the disappointment stings more this time because they did bring my hopes up," Rebecca murmured, her voice laced with a mix of resignation and hurt. "It's as if they apologized only because they had to, not because they truly intended to change."

Freen just continued to hold Rebecca and the room fell into a somber silence, the only sounds being heard were their quiet breaths.

As they held onto each other, a faint knock echoed through the door, interrupting the peaceful moment. Freen looked towards the door where Elara stood, understanding that Rebecca had to go.

"Excuse me, Princess. I'm here to get you for your next scheduled event," Elara announced gently.

Rebecca sighed softly, reluctantly pulling away from Freen's comforting embrace. She straightened her posture, trying to regain her composure before she left the room. "Thank you, Elara. I'm coming," Rebecca responded, her voice betraying a hint of lingering sadness.

Rebecca glanced back at Freen, a faint, tender smile curving her lips. "I'll see you later," she whispered softly, wanting to stay longer with Freen.

Before Rebecca turned away to follow Elara, she closed the distance between them, pressing a shy kiss on Freen's cheek, and quickly rushed to her next commitment.

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Later that evening, Freen retreated to her quarters, her thoughts consumed by her feelings for Rebecca and what had transpired between the two. She sat down to pen a letter to her parents, attempting to articulate the tangle of emotions she was wrestling with.

Dear Mother and Father,

I hope this letter finds you both well. There have been surprising revelations during my time here in Lumina that I must share with you. I have been meaning to write to you sooner, but each time I attempted to put a quill to parchment my words failed me. My feelings have become unexpectedly complicated.

Allow me to thank you first for convincing me to attend the festival. After my last two courtships ended in heartbreak, I had resolved to focus solely on my duties to Gaelle. Yet you both believed I would find someone, whether it be with Princess Rebecca or not.

I want to say that the nobility and court have welcomed me warmly. Rebecca herself is as kind as rumors suggest. She possesses grace, intelligence, wisdom beyond her years, and above all - a warmth and generosity of spirit that I am instinctively drawn to. I now count her as a cherished friend.

I don't know if news had reached you, but there was a shocking announcement at her presentation ball that had shocked the entire court, including me as well. The presumed alpha princess was revealed as omega. I was quite shocked, but was also pleasantly surprised.

It has not been easy for her, after years of behaving as an alpha heir. Yet we have established a close connection by comforting each other in quiet confidence and gaining deeper understanding of one another. My protective instincts around her intensified tenfold. What I first believed friendship has blossomed through shared understanding into profound love, beyond my wildest expectations.

And yet - her omega status will certainly surprise you as much as it did me. I realize you had hoped I would find someone for myself. You did not explicitly tell me that I shouldn't like another omega, but I know you are worried for me if I did. I myself had not envisioned falling for an omega. But Rebecca captivates me wholly, like no other ever has. This is more than infatuation - of that I am certain.

Rebecca herself remains unaware of the full intensity of my affection. While I believe she cares for me deeply, her upbringing makes it difficult to confront her emotions. My omega pheromones react powerfully when she is near, compelling me to devote myself completely to her wellbeing and heart's desires. I have held back voicing the words I long to profess, not wishing to overwhelm, for I know my feelings will scare her away.

Yet I am aware we would face immense obstacles in courting. The Luminan court has groomed their princess for an alpha consort - the traditional match for an heir apparent. My candidacy may meet resistance and skepticism. But when we are together, I can see that Rebecca is truly happy and yearns for my presence. I am convinced in time, if Rebecca gives us a chance, our love would sway even the most stubborn elders. With mature communication, we can surmount any barriers.

As unexpected as my own feelings have been, I believe Rebecca may be experiencing a similar affection. Since the reveal of her designation, she has confided privately that none of her princely suitors stir her heart the way ours has. We have bonded in intimacy unfamiliar to her, yet I sense her marvel as our understanding deepens. There are moments when Rebecca steals an adoring glance my way or reaches for my hand when no others can see - unconscious gestures that give me hope. And she welcomed and reciprocated when I gathered the courage to steal a kiss.

Rebecca by nature is selfless, inclined to suppress her desires to avoid causing disappointment. But underneath her propriety, her body language betrays a yearning for my presence that she may not herself decipher yet.

My foremost priority now is cherishing the special bond between us, rather than rushing Rebecca before she herself fully processes her feelings. Patience and care for her delicate position will surely reward my faith with the future I secretly envision - one where Rebecca and I rule happily side by side... But, I would also understand if she can not handle my feelings, nor hers. It is not me in a relationship and I would not want to push her into a relationship with me and have Rebecca regret later. All I hope is that Rebecca does not lead me into a relationship with no future...

My hesitation in telling you springs from uncertainty. I do not wish to let you down or fail in my responsibilities to Gaelle over a youthful fancy. Yet I cannot ignore how Rebecca makes me feel. I value your wisdom and guidance, now more than ever, as my heart pulls me unexpectedly towards her...

With affection and respect, Your favorite daughter,

Freen